FAQs - Getting to the Ship

How early should I arrive at the pier?Ship boarding, also known as embarkation, begins four to five hours before the ship is scheduled to depart. Due to security reasons, all passengers must be onboard at least one hour prior to departure.

I'm booking airfare on my own. When should I schedule my flights to arrive and depart?You should schedule your flight to arrive a minimum of four hours before your ship is scheduled to set sail, which should give you enough time to make it to the pier and check in to your cruise.

We suggest you schedule your return flight to depart a minimum of six hours after you're scheduled to arrive in port. That should give you enough time to disembark the ship, clear customs, and make it to airport check-in. The more time you give yourself, the better.

How do I get from the airport to the ship?If you booked cruise line airfare, transfers are often included. You may be met at baggage claim by a cruise line representative who will provide transportation from the airport to the pier. Please check your travel vouchers for details.

If you booked your own airfare, you will be required to get yourself from the airport to the pier. When you receive your cruise documents, your ticket will provide the name of the pier from which your cruise departs.

Can I park at the pier?Most ports do have parking right at the pier. However, like airport parking, it can be a bit pricy.

What happens if my flight is delayed?If your flight is delayed and you booked the cruise line's airfare, the cruise line will be made aware of the delay (but you should still call the cruise line to inform a representative of the delay). If you miss the ship, oftentimes the cruise line will transport you to the ship's next port of call.

If your flight is delayed and you did not book cruise line airfare, please call the cruise line immediately and let them know of the delay so that they can make arrangements to get you to the ship. We recommend that you purchase travel insurance which may cover you for this unfortunate circumstance.